Cardinals 53-man roster predictions following the 2022 NFL Draft
By Sion Fawkes
Inside Linebackers (5)
Isaiah Simmons, Zaven Collins, Nick Vigil, Ezekiel Turner, Tanner Vallejo
Another group laden with potential and led by two former first-round picks. Neither Isaiah Simmons nor Zaven Collins lived up to their lofty expectations in 2021. However, Simmons proved himself durable in 17 starts. If he stops making so many tackles downfield, he can develop into an elite linebacker.
Collins struggled to see the field last season, but he will get a chance because of his draft status. Nick Vigil was an excellent addition and he will back up both Simmons and Collins. Don’t be surprised if he ends up starting if Collins struggles.
Turner and Vallejo won’t see much playing time on defense, but they make for excellent special teams pieces. Overall, Simmons, Collins, and Vigil will try to lead a unit that struggled mightily in stopping the run last season.